Flood watch issued by Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority is issuing a FLOOD WATCH for Dalhousie Lake. Levels on the lake are expected to increase another 10 to 20 cm above current elevations over the next 72 hours. Levels are expected to remain high for the next week as water from the upper portion of the watershed makes its way through the system.

Flows continue to increase within the Clyde and Fall River watersheds but are expected to peak by the weekend at near average spring conditions. Flows within the Indian and Carp Rivers have increased again as a result of the rainfall over the last 24 hours but are expected to peak (at levels below what they were last week) today or early tomorrow. No significant flood damage is expected along any these rivers at this time. Levels on Mississippi Lake are expected to increase another 15 to 25 cm over the next 4 days and should stabilize by next Monday. Flows on the Mississippi River are expected to peak early next week.

Any additional rainfall this week or next will aggravate the situation. Residents are strongly urged to remind children of the dangers of hypothermia from cold water and playing near fast flowing rivers and creeks.

Residents in low lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

Ensuring sump pumps are clear and in good working condition

Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase

This FLOOD WATCH is valid through April 30, 2018. Additional statements will be issued when or if conditions are expected to change significantly from this outlook.

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority flood forecasting and warning program monitors weather conditions, snowpack water content, estimates expected river flows and water levels and issues flood advisories or warnings as required. MVCA provides early warning and continuous monitoring to municipal and provincial emergency response personnel through a flood event.